A special launch has been held to mark the official start of works for the West Midlands Interchange.
Industry leaders, politicians and local stakeholders celebrated the inception of the rail-served logistics hub which will boost zero-carbon connectivity and bring up to 8,500 jobs.
The 734-acre site at Four Ashes just off the M6 south of Penkridge will have an intermodal freight terminal with direct connections to the West Coast mainline.
Up to eight million square feet of commercial logistics warehousing will be built on the site and 109 acres has also been assigned for two community parks.
Winvic Construction, the main works contractor of the first phase, are looking to maximise work opportunities for local people and businesses during the construction phase, including providing employment, apprenticeship and trainee positions.
Oxford Properties and Logistics Capital Partners (LCP) who are bringing the project forward as a joint venture, have indicated that putting West Midlands communities at the heart of the development is a key focus.
The project is set to deliver economic, environmental and social benefits while generating £430 million local economic activity, as well as £900 million nationally every year.
Staffordshire County Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for economy and skills Philip White said: “The West Midlands Interchange is a huge development that will generate numerous and varied opportunities for years to come.”
James Boadle, Head of Logistics and European Strategy at Oxford Properties, commented: “Demand for best-in-class logistics space that’s sustainable and well connected continues to significantly outstrip supply – especially in the UK’s ‘Golden Triangle’.
“With spades now in the ground, we are at the first step in the construction of this major project that we are undertaking alongside LCP.”
LCP Managing Partner James Markby said: “We look forward to delivering what will be a world leading logistics hub, with a new Strategic Rail Freight Interchange, while delivering significant economic benefit to the region and nationally.
“We are creating a milestone example for private investment that materially contributes towards a carbon net zero future.”
